Essential maintenance carried out by Network Rail will take place from Monday the 21st to and including Thursday the 24th between Kemble and Sapperton in Gloucestershire. The period of work will affect journeys between Swindon and Gloucester, with no direct services operating between London Paddington and Cheltenham Spa.
Network Rail was also planning to carry out track and ballast replacement near Stroud during this period of work however has been postponed due to the discovery of Dormice in the area and as it is currently breeding season for the protected species, they must not be disturbed. Network Rail is very much focused on the protection and maintenance of the natural environment, including special habitats such as this, and has opted to undertake less disruptive work instead.
Whilst the work between Kemble and Sapperton is underway, Great Western Railway will operate rail replacement buses, which will support journeys to the following stations due to there being no stopping train services:
- Kemble
- Stroud
- Stonehouse
Passengers making their way to Gloucester and Cheltenham Spa will be able to travel by train via Bristol Parkway.
Due to the planned work, passengers are advised to check their travel plans ahead of making a journey and can visit the Great Western Railway website by clicking here.
Jonathan Skirton, Network Rail infrastructure manager, said:
“Our teams need to maintain vegetation and drainage near to the railway to reduce flood risk and keep the tracks safe.”
“We're sorry for the disruption to passengers, but this work will ensure journeys are more reliable for years to come.”
Ben Scott, GWR's Station Manager for South Cotswolds, added:
“This work is part of an ongoing programme that will enable us to maintain services for customers travelling to or from Gloucestershire.”
“We'll provide alternative road transport and work with other train companies to ensure customers can still complete their journeys during this time.”
